Cold War Submariner Marcus Peters and I dive into the complexities of military ethics, the unspoken valour of Cold War submariners, and the challenging transition into civilian life in H-Hour #268. We explore the stringent selection process for submarine captains, the camaraderie and unique culture aboard submarines, and the often unacknowledged psychological toll of service. Marcus opens up about his own struggles with leaving the military, the shame he once felt, and the importance of mentorship, community, and mental health support for veterans. This episode is a profound look into the silent sacrifices and uncelebrated heroes beneath the waves.

H-Hour Icebreaker #268. In this engaging icebreaker episode, former Cold War submariner Marcus Peters discusses the ethical dilemmas in military orders, the day-to-day life of military personnel, and the robust training exercises they undergo. The conversation shifts to the challenges and support mechanisms for military personnel transitioning to civilian life, with a focus on various branches of the armed forces. Peters also shares personal reflections on wisdom gained with age, the emotional connection to military service, and debunks common myths about leaving the forces. This episode serves as a prelude to a full podcast with Marcus, offering an intimate glimpse into Peters' experiences and insights.

H-Hour #267 features Yukari Takehisa - co-founder of Longevity Rave. Yukari , a DJ, delves into the liberating power of raving and its positive impact on mental health and longevity. Partnering with her co-founder Tina, they blend electronic music with scientific research on well-being, aiming to create inclusive, multi-generational communities. Yukari discusses varying rave cultures globally, the origins of techno, and their upcoming sober rave in London. Their mission is to promote the health benefits of dance and community, proving that you don’t need alcohol or drugs to have an amazing rave experience. https://www.longevityrave.world/ https://www.instagram.com/longevity.rave/ https://www.tiktok.com/@longevity.rave

Yukari Takehisa, born in Tokyo, raised in the United States, and educated in the United Kingdom, is also an Insights Manager in the social intelligence industry, holding a degree in anthropology and a master’s in media and communications from the London School of Economics.

H-Hour Icebreaker #267 Yukari Takehisa - co-founder of Longevity Rave. In this engaging icebreaker addressing questions submitted by H-Hour patrons, Hugh and Yukari discuss a variety of topics including the concept of living forever, cultural exchanges between Japan and the UK, as well as happiness across demographics. Yukari shares her personal experiences of bridging Japanese and Western cultures, her thoughts on societal norms, and her transformative journey through music and dancing. The conversation delves into the significance of joy and connection in discussions about health and longevity, alongside addressing societal views on aging. Once you have finished this episode, be sure to listen to the full podcast H-Hour #267. https://www.longevityrave.world/ https://www.instagram.com/longevity.rave/ https://www.tiktok.com/@longevity.rave

Yukari Takehisa, born in Tokyo, raised in the United States, and educated in the United Kingdom, is also an Insights Manager in the social intelligence industry, holding a degree in anthropology and a master’s in media and communications from the London School of Economics.

H-Hour #266 features ex-SAS, 2 Para and activist Ben Griffin returns to discuss a wide range of topics from his controversial viewpoints on patriotism, the British military's interventions in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya, to his personal experiences and struggles with PTSD. The conversation dives into moral and ethical debates within the military, the impact of governmental policies on war-stricken regions, and reflection on historical versus modern-day combat ethics. Griffin also sheds light on his transformative journey from being a serviceman to a vocal critic of British foreign policy. The episode concludes with practical advice for veterans dealing with mental health issues, marking a thought-provoking and candid discussion.

H-Hour Icebreaker #266 Ben Griffin - This icebreaker episode (prequel to a full H-Hour podcast) features features ex-22 SAS, 2 Para, and activist Ben Griffin who returns for an in-depth conversation, addressing challenging questions from H-Hour Platinum subscribers. He discusses his reluctance to participate in public interviews, citing his retirement from activism. The discussion touches on moral duty, the impacts of his military experiences, and the limitations of systemic change from within the military. Griffin also reflects on his unique perspective as an SAS veteran and the broader implications of military culture in British society. The conversation delves into his views on political censorship and the complex nature of institutional change.

H-Hour #265 Paul Tyson - News Editor, British Army veteran, journalist.

Veteran journalist Paul Tyson joins the podcast to offer an in-depth look into his career and the changing landscape of news reporting. From his days in the military to covering significant global events, Paul shares his experiences and the challenges of reporting on complex issues like war, climate change, and natural disasters. He also discusses his current focus on Blast Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs), emphasizing the need for better diagnostic and treatment practices. This episode sheds light on the ethical considerations and responsibilities that come with being a journalist in today’s fast-paced media environment. https://x.com/Tyson585

H-Hour Icebreaker #265 Paul Tyson - News Editor, journalist and British Army veteran. This icebreaker episode (prequel to a full H-Hour podcast) features Paul and Hugh engaging in a dynamic discussion in for Paul's first ever interview. They cover the evolution of journalism, criticisms and defences of mainstream media, and the complexities of diversity in the industry. Tyson reflects on significant changes within the media landscape over his 30-year career, criticising past practices and supporting the role of a free press today. The episode serves as a prelude to a deeper dive into these issues in the full podcast. https://x.com/Tyson585

H-Hour #264 Tom Currigan - Apache Pilot

Former Apache Pilot Tom Currigan offers a gripping account of his experiences, detailing near-death encounters in Afghanistan, the challenges of military life, and the harrowing process of making split-second, life-or-death decisions. Transitioning to civilian life, he discusses the therapeutic power of music and forming his band, Rogue Awakening, during the COVID-19 lockdown. The conversation covers the intense camaraderie of both military and music worlds, and the unexpected overlaps between them.

H-Hour Icebreaker #264 Tom Currigan - Apache Pilot. This icebreaker episode (prequel to a full H-Hour podcast) features ex Army Air Corps Apache Pilot Tom Currigan In this episode, Tom Currigan answers H-Hour subscriber's questions and shares harrowing accounts from his time as an Apache pilot, including a near-fatal encounter with a tug vehicle on a runway. The discussion transitions to life lessons, such as overcoming failure and the importance of hard work over talent. Tom also reflects on his inspirations, the pitfalls of social media, and the value of genuine effort in achieving success. The episode concludes with Tom's perspectives on modern influencers and the culture of entitlement.